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People always claim that they have to keep reinventing themselves throughout their lifetime. From youth to our golden years, we always strive to better ourselves. One reason may be for us to try to give ourselves a stronger identity. During our youth and teen years, students tend to be recognized for their grades. However, with college lurking around the corner, taking part in extracurricular activities during one’s high school years (and even earlier than that) is important to college administrators when they hand-pick their up-and-coming students. In other words, good grades and outside activities involve both the learning experience and having fun. It’s also a way for kids and teenagers to impress their parents, siblings and those around them.

For the most part, this theory doesn’t change much once a person graduates from college. Most likely, unless they tend to go for a certificate or attend graduate school,…

Dr. Maya Angelou, A Phenomenal WomanInterviewed and written by Dr. Shanessa Fenner
On the morning of our interview, the incomparable Dr. Maya Angelou is busily working in her garden prior to our interview. She discusses her various leading African-American art sculptures, knock- out roses, and azaleas that people stop to photograph. Shanessa Fenner: I am enjoying your book, Mom & Me & Mom, and I laughed at the part when you and Babe had sex and you asked him, “Is this all that it is?”Maya Angelou: I had been raped when I was 7 years old. My hope was all these things that I had seen happen in the movies where people sigh and melt was going to happen. That was what it really was about. Well nothing happened. It was painful a little but it didn’t thrill. He was a jerk. He was 20 and I was 16. He did not know how to do any foreplay or encourage his mate to enjoy herself. What he wanted was relief not joy. I had to grow older to understand that. SF: You discussed…

Rickey Smiley: The Rickey Smiley ShowInterviewed and written by Aaron Robinson-Editor
When asked who is your favorite comedian, it’s difficult to leave out funnyman Rickey Smiley in a conversation amongst family, friends and the millions of fans who love him. I was granted the opportunity to interview the hilarious comedian in regards to “The Rickey Smiley Show“, which returned to TV One for the second season with all new shows.

Smiley is known for his prank phone calls, and initially I thought I was a candidate of his joke prior to us pursuing the interview, as he reached out to me several minutes early. “Naw, Naw, Naw! I wasn’t going to do that to you,” says Smiley as we both laughed over the phone, both excited about the interview for Consciousness Magazine. The comedian shares his experience regarding having a sitcom and working with a cast of incredibly talented individuals. “It will definitely make you step up your game, you know, especially working closely with R…

Eric Roberson [Exclusive Interview]Interviewed and written by Hector De La Rosa, twitter: @11journ_list
Entering the venue and the sound of crashing drums and guitar riffs make up a sweet bliss of instrumental sounds. Eric Roberson is present on stage with band mates for sound check. The crooner discovers his inner Frank Sinatra as he sings his version of The Notorious B.I.G’s “Big Poppa.” Plenty of chuckles came out as Roberson expresses his entire soul adding humor to the song’s famous lyric, “I got more Mack than Craig in the bed/ Believe me sweety I got enough to feed the needy.”It is a wonder that Roberson is dubbed for crafting baby making music. However, Roberson adlibbing his Grammy nominated single “Tale of Two” (a personal favorite) on stage came to mind why he is dubbed genius and as “The King of Indie Soul.” Hector De La Rosa:In what ways has music helped Eric Roberson’s life?ERRO: Music has been the soundtrack of my life. It has been a best friend…

Finola Hughes Directing Debut
Interviewed and written by Aaron Robinson - Editor
As a regular on the classic ABC soap “General Hospital” playing the character Anna Devane, you can catch Emmy-winning actress Finola Hughes in various films utilizing her creativity to convey her message to her audience. The London-born actress has been acting in TV/film for more than 30 years. She has starred in the epic film Staying Alive opposite John Travolta and has had a critically acclaimed supporting role in the feature Like Crazy with Anton Yelchin and Jennifer Lawrence. The veteran actress has also starred in TV series such as “Jacks Place”, “Blossom” and “Charmed” just to name a few.
Hughes recently directed her feature-film debut, “The Bet” (TheBetMovie.com). The story is about a grandfather making a bet with his grandson, in regards to which one of them will be able to seduce a lady first. The film is a thrilling, funny, poignant and romantic comedy produced by the Community Film Studio Sant…

Steven Bauer (Exclusive Interview)
Interviewed and written by Aaron Robinson - Editor
Between the moment of Steven Bauer completing an interview and minutes before pursing the Tom Green Show, I was able to catch veteran actor Steven Bauer as he traveled through the streets of Santa Monica on another busy day. With Bauer being familiar with the publication, Consciousness Magazine, that regularly highlights the positivity of entertainers and much more, I was even more delighted to speak with the charismatic and humble actor. Our exciting and vigor conversation came up about my native city, Chicago, where he spoke of the severe winter days and where he had the opportunity of working on past film projects such as Primal Fear with Richard Gere and Ed Norton and Running Scared, an 80’s film starring Gregory Hines and Billy Crystal. Here is what Steven Bauer had to share with the readers. Aaron Robinson: You play Avi on the Showtime hit series “Ray Donovan.” What is it like working with such…

Rising star Guy Nardulli (Q&A)
Interviewed by Tocarra Eldridge How does it feel to be a viral sensation and finally getting the recognition that you deserve?It's a bit surreal. I'm still getting used to the attention that I'm getting. From the gym to the local bars and restaurants, and even in my building, it's pretty cool hearing people say "Hey! You're the guy from the Superman ad?" To be tied to Superman is really cool. What was it like working on set with Henry Cavill and Zack Snyder?Wow! It was an amazing opportunity to work with both of these very talented men. Henry was so down to earth and easy to talk to, you would never know that he was a mega star. Just looking at him and you knew that this was Superman. He possesses all the qualities that you would think Superman would have. What can I say about working with Zack? Super talented director. I loved 300 and Watchmen, and to be able to work with the guy that directed those and now M…

This season, Carson’s is excited to fulfill your wardrobe needs with its new dresses. The dresses are available in many styles from formal or casual to fabulously flirty, convenient for various occasions, filled with fun and colorful patterns.

Also available are maxi dresses that are comfortable and chic, offered in a variety of styles, from floral prints, tie dye, zig zag, and so on.
Below are some of the spring dresses from a small selection that are available at Carson’s and online at www.bonton.com.

Patrick Faucette of the Have's and the Have Nots
Interviewed and written by Aaron Robinson- Editor
After pursing an acting class while having a career as a Physical Therapist, it was soon that the talented and gifted actor, Patrick Faucette, would take on a love for his new found art, acting. At a young age, Patrick had a passion for playing the bass guitar. When he became an athlete in college music was put to the side; however, it resurfaced later on in his life as an actor. The brilliant actor has been credited for films such as Teenage Bank Heist and Walk Hard, as well as occurring roles in the highest rated drama on OWN, “The Have’s and Have Nots”.
Today Faucette continues to be blessed as his gift and talents opens up doors to his future. Here is what Patrick Faucette had to share during a recent interview with Consciousness Magazine. Aaron Robinson: How did you land the role in the new sitcom “The Have’s and Have Nots”?Patrick Faucette: Well, I started as a I kind of last m…

Mark Victor Hansen: The Ambassador of Possibility
Interviewed and written by Elder Lee M. Harris, Sr.
In our world today, many struggle with defeat caused by being fed what is sometimes referred to as the ole short end of the stick. In other words, for many, life is not felt to be up to its full potential in areas of Peace, Happiness and most of all, Life’s Benefits. There are people that never reach up to the sky and say, “I want it all!” Also, there are others that are so very pleased at the bare minimum that comes their way over a total life time, and then there are that very few that says, “Sky is the limit and I’m going to do all I can to have it all!” In so many cases, there are that very few that went for it all and then selfishly stand flatfooted and says, “I went out there and got mine, now you find a way to get yours!”
Today, I have the privilege of interviewing not only a Pronounced National Voice of Hope, but also a man of Faith and Belief. He loves nothing more than shar…

The Matchmaker of the Century: Hellen Chen
Interviewed and written by Tocarra Eldridge Why are half of the marriages in the US ending in divorce? The marriage rate per 1000 in population is currently at 6.8 according to the Center for Disease Control; whereas the divorce rate per 1000 in population is 3.4. According to the National Center for Family and Marriage Research at Bowling Green State University, the divorce rate among baby boomers has nearly doubled. The rising trend in divorces has also been seen in countries such as Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Nonetheless, the percentage of single parents has risen to 30% in Hong Kong.
I (Consciousness Magazine) was able to speak to The Matchmaker of the Century, Hellen Chen, who has been responsible for helping men and women find the right partners in their life. Chen has been married for more than 20 years. She has been quoted in over 200 publications, having guest appearances on many independent and mainstream radio and televisi…

Singer and Producer Stokley Williams of Mint Condition
Interviewed and written by Tocarra Eldridge
I was recently granted the opportunity to interview Stokley Williams, lead singer of one of the hottest bands of all time, Mint Condition. The Minneapolis multi-platinum R&B group emerged from the 90’s. Their unique and creative sound blended with various genres has left astounding impression on the music industry. They have been known for releasing hit songs such as “Breaking My Heart (Pretty Brown Eyes)”, “Forever In Your Eyes”, and “U Send Me Swingin”, just to name a few.
As of today, Stokley Williams has been writing and producing for Grammy Award-winning artist. Active with the group, they have released their new album, Music @ the Speed of Life. Here is what the gifted and talented well-rounded artist had to share with Consciousness Magazine readers. Tocarra Eldridge: What makes you guys project, Music @ The Speed of Light different from any other project you all have ever reco…

Tanay Jackson Involvement with Retake Talent Search
Interviewed and written by Aaron Robinson

Long hours of recording sessions, performing and working diligently are usually typical days for pop artist Tanay Jackson. The gifted singer is the daughter of Tito Jackson and niece of the most talented artist that ever walked the planet, Michael Jackson. At the age of 12, Tanay Jackson began writing music and poetry. Intensely, she continues to shock the world by storm with her artistry.
Eager, enthused and confident, Tanay Jackson shares to the readers about her involvement with Retake Talent Search. “I found Retake while searching on line. I was like, wow! This is great…just to deal with a brand new sight looking for any artist! There’s just so many artist. It’s so saturated with so many artists, that a lot of artist never gets the exposure. With Retake, the artist receives the recognition and help they deserve,” sincerely states Jackson. ReTake also works with newcomers as well as estab…

Kevin Jones, CEO of KJE Inc.
Written by Aaron Robinson
Starting from a humble beginning to a man filled with a good sense of humor and ambition, President and CEO, Kevin Jones, KJE Inc. /Business In A Bucket and Business In A Bucket Institute - B.I.B.I., (a nonprofit organization that works to develop entrepreneurial young leaders that are highly interested and engaged in advocating youth preparedness through entrepreneurship) has always been driven and goal orientated for many portions of his life.
Since a young age, Jones has had the determination to become successful after experiencing many factors of harsh reality in his life as a youth. Overcoming those challenges, he has taken on odd jobs to make money for food, clothing and fun. Not taking credit for himself, there has been countless family members and mentors who has molded him into who he is today.
Before Business In A Bucket was invented, the soon to be entrepreneur had hard times finding a job in his adulthood. His wife …

Servant of Change “An Interview with Hussain Najadi”
Interviewed and written by Aaron Robinson

As a leader, Hussain Najadi is no stranger when it comes to overcoming life’s
adversities. Seeking the important things in life, the Bahrain native endured
many tasks in his home country in which he was ejected as a teenager. He holds
his roots closely to his heart, being a spiritual vessel to those who are going
through struggles and hardships in their life.

Today, Najadi is the founder, chairman and CEO of AIAK Group, who is
responsible for founding the fifth largest bank in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia,
called AmBank. He became the leader in the wholesale and corporate banking in
Southeast Asia, creating the Arab-Malaysian Development Bank, linking business
between the Middle East, Southeast and Europe.

Hussian Najadi is here to
share some insight regarding his recent published book “The Sea and Hills: The
Life of Hussain Najadi”, his life struggles, as well as share words of
encoura…

About Consciousness Magazine
Consciousness Magazine – “Urban Inspiration,” is committed to raising the level of consciousness of the residents in our community. The mission of Consciousness Magazine is to promote understanding, make a difference in society, touch hearts, as well as, emphasize positive celebrities and significant social figures through strong articles and compelling visuals. This publication embraces ethnicity and multiculture, in hopes of bringing different cultures together in peace and friendship.